When should I apply for Social Security Disability?
You should apply for Social Security Disability benefits as soon as you become disabled and know that you will be unable to work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Disability process can take a long time, you should not wait to apply for benefits.
How do I apply for Social Security Disability benefits?
You can apply for Social Security Disability benefits online, over the phone, or at your local Social Security District Office. You can also choose to have an attorney help you with your application. If you would like Berger and Green to help you apply complete the contact form or call 1-800-.
Should I appeal my Social Security Disability denial?
Yes. If you are disabled and unable to work you should appeal your Social Security Disability denial. Do not be discouraged. Most people are denied the first time. If you are denied benefits, call Berger and Green for a free evaluation of your claim.
Can I receive benefits for a mental illness?
Yes. The Social Security Administration awards benefits to disabled people who are suffering from mental illness and to disabled people suffering from a physical disabilities. If you have a mental illness that leaves you unable to work you may be eligible for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income benefits.
Am I eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income is a federal income program for people who are disabled and who meet certain low income and resource requirements. The Social Security Administration will determine if you are eligible for benefits. They will ask questions about your living arrangements, bank and savings accounts, your property, and your household income. You will not be eligible for Supplemental Security Income if the Social Security Administration determines that your income and resources are too high.
Am I eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits (SSD)?
The Social Security Administration will determine if you are eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits. To receive SSD monthly payments, the Social Security Administration must find you disabled and you need to have worked long enough and paid FICA taxes.
How does the Social Security Administration define disability?
The Social Security Administration defines disability as the "inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months." To be found disabled, your medical condition must keep you from working for at least 1 year.
What information does the Social Security Administration use to decide if I am disabled?
The Social Security Administration will review medical records from your doctors, therapists, and hospital stays. You may have to see a doctor paid for by the Social Security Administration. The Social Security Administration will look at how your symptoms affect your ability to perform daily activities.
Can I collect SSD and SSI?
Yes. Some people are eligible to collect both Social Security Disability benefits and Supplemental Security Income. A person can qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits and Supplemental Security Income if they are found disabled, meet certain low-income requirements, and have worked and paid FICA taxes.
Can I receive Medicaid?
If you are awarded Supplemental Security Income you will be eligible for Medicaid. Your Medicaid benefits will begin immediately.
Can I receive Medicare?
If you are awarded Social Security Disability benefits your eligibility for Medicare will begin 2 years from the date you are eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits.
Do I need a Social Security Disability Attorney?
You can apply for benefits, appeal your denial, and go to your disability hearing without an attorney. However, you have a greater chance of winning your Social Security Disability claim with the help of an attorney. The Social Security Disability process is complicated. Having an experienced Social Security Disability attorney is a good idea.
Can I receive Workers' compensation and Social Security Disability benefits?
Yes. If you receive Workers' Compensation benefits and Social Security Disability benefits, the total monthly amount of the combined benefits cannot be greater than 80 percent of your average current earnings before you became disabled. Your Social Security payment will be offset by your Workers' Compensation payment in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. In Ohio your Workers' Compensation benefit will be reduced.
How much does Berger and Green charge?
At Berger and Green, cases are accepted on a contingency fee basis. This means that you are only charged a fee if your case is won. The Social Security Administration determines how much Berger and Green can charge. The Social Security Administration approved fee is 25% of your back benefit or $6,000, whichever is less. This amount increases from time to time and is regulated by the Social Security Administration. In addition, you can be charged for the cost of ordering your medical records or other associated costs.
How do I contact Berger and Green?
You can contact Berger and Green by completing the online contact form or by calling us. We want to discuss your disability claim with you and are here to answer your questions.
